Hibernian Football Club have officially confirmed the appointment of Marink Reedijk as their new manager, stepping in after the dismissal of David Gray just over a week ago. The 35‑year‑old Dutch tactician arrives from Belgian side SK Beveren, where he guided the team to the second‑division championship while remaining unbeaten throughout the campaign. Reedijk’s résumé also includes valuable experience working within the youth academies of Ajax and West Bromwich Albion, where he helped develop a number of promising talents.
Speaking at a press conference, Reedijk expressed his enthusiasm for the role: "I am honoured to be appointed manager of Hibernian Football Club. This is one of the biggest clubs in Scottish football, with a unique history, identity and supporter base, and I am excited to experience that passion and connection first‑hand. I can feel the ambition and see the clarity of what the club is trying to achieve. That was a big part of what attracted me here." He went on to outline his footballing philosophy, emphasizing a desire for an assertive, brave, and intense style of play.
"I want us to be an assertive team – brave, intense and committed. A team that gives everything, plays with purpose and gives our supporters something to really get behind. There is quality and potential in the squad, and good work has already been done.
My first job is to get to know the players, build on those foundations and make sure we are ready for Dundee United," Reedijk said. Reedijk’s first task will be a pre‑season training camp in La Manga, Spain, which the squad will attend this Saturday. The camp will serve as an opportunity for the new manager to assess his players, implement his tactical ideas and foster team cohesion ahead of his inaugural competitive match – a Scottish Premiership away fixture at Dundee United scheduled for 10 October. Hibs currently sit in 10th place in the Scottish Premiership, having secured only two victories from their opening seven league games.
The club’s recent form has been inconsistent, prompting the board to seek a fresh direction while maintaining the core principles that have defined Hibernian’s footballing identity. Sporting director Malky Mackay praised the appointment, stating: "Marink's appointment is an exciting moment for Hibernian Football Club.
We began this process with a clear idea of the type of team we want to continue to build and the qualities we wanted from our next Manager. Marink's football philosophy, his work with players and his leadership style are strongly aligned with that. His teams are proactive, high energy and dynamic.
What also stands out is his ability to develop individuals and create a strong collective environment. This is not about changing the direction of our football strategy. It is about continuing to evolve it, and we believe Marink is an excellent fit to take the team forward." Executive chairman Ian Gordon added his support, noting: "Marink was the standout candidate.
He impressed everyone involved in the process with his clarity, intelligence and drive. He shares our ambition to develop players and consistently compete at the top end of Scottish football and in Europe.
Marink has our backing, and we will continue to invest in the team to give him the best possible platform to succeed. We're delighted to welcome Marink and his family to the club." Reedijk’s track record suggests he is well‑suited to the challenges ahead. At SK Beveren, he not only secured promotion but did so without suffering a single defeat, a testament to his ability to organise a disciplined, attacking side.
His earlier work with Ajax’s academy exposed him to a possession‑based, technically focused style of play, while his stint at West Bromwich Albion gave him insight into the physical demands of English football. Combining these experiences, Reedijk aims to blend technical proficiency with the high‑intensity, pressing approach that has become a hallmark of successful modern teams. Beyond tactics, Reedijk highlighted the importance of building a strong club culture.
He spoke about wanting to foster a sense of unity among the players, staff and supporters, acknowledging the deep connection Hibernian enjoys with its fan base. "I want our supporters to feel proud of what we do on the pitch," he said. "When the team plays with purpose and passion, the fans can feel that energy and it creates a special atmosphere that drives us forward." The upcoming La Manga camp will be crucial for establishing his training methods, conditioning routines, and communication channels. It will also give the squad a chance to bond away from the pressures of the Scottish league, allowing Reedijk to assess fitness levels, identify key players, and pinpoint areas that need improvement before the season’s decisive matches begin.
Looking ahead, the first test against Dundee United will be a litmus test for Reedijk’s ideas. The match will offer a glimpse into how quickly the team can adapt to his demands for intensity and collective responsibility. A positive result could provide a morale boost and set the tone for a gradual climb up the league table, while a setback would highlight the work still required to translate his philosophy into consistent performances. In summary, Hibernian have taken a bold step by appointing a young, forward‑thinking manager with a proven record of success in both youth development and senior competition.
With the backing of the board, a clear vision for the club’s future, and a supportive fan base, Reedijk has the platform to reshape Hibs’ fortunes and steer them back toward contention for domestic honours and potential European qualification. The next few months will be pivotal as he implements his ideas, integrates his staff, and strives to unlock the latent potential within the squad.